Gloucester County has had some big news in 2015. Here are the top 5 stores of the year.

It's been a busy year in Gloucester County. From notable court cases to the tragic death of a young football star, a few stories stand out as the most important in the county in 2015.

'Blue Hole' quarry claims a life: Monroe Township's blue hole has long been a temptation for young swimmers on a hot summer day. This past July, a group of those kids were exploring the former quarry when Darius Boyer, a 17-year-old Williamstown High School student and athlete. Boyer's death drew further attention to the danger of swimming in deceptively dangerous quarries.

Former cop found guilty of murder: James Stuart stood trial this September for the 2013 shooting death of his friend David Compton, 27. Stuart maintained through the trial that the shooting was an accident after a night of drinking, while prosecutor's argued that it was murder. After a two-week trial and 2 1/2 days of jury deliberations Stuart was found guilty of murder and aggravated manslaughter.

'Macroburst' storm causes Macro trouble: Some thought it was a tornado.

A massive storm, later determined to be a 'macroburst' system, tore through Gloucester County in the evening of June 23.In just an hour the 85-mile-per-hour winds downed trees, ripped roofs off of businesses and homes and knocked power out to hundreds of thousands of homes, causing about $20 million in damages throughout the state. It took weeks for power to be restored to everyone and some are still dealing with the storm's damage. FEMA funding is on the way for some municipalities affected.

Former cop found not guilty of misconduct: When Assemblyman Paul Moriarty was pulled over and arrested on drunk driving charges in 2012 it set off a political spider web that finally came to an end this year when the officer who pulled him over was found not guilty of official misconduct. Moriarty's charges were dropped in 2013 after dash cam video from DiBounaventura's police cruiser showed that he lied about his reasoning for pulling Moriarty over. It wasn't enough to convict him of official misconduct, however, as a jury found him not guilty after a month-long trial.

Deptford's long-awaited splash pad opens: Yes, we did have some good news in Gloucester County this year. Deptford Township opened a new splash pad at Fasola Park. A water attraction at a public park might not seem like the biggest deal, but the new splash pad and other improvements at the park -- including a reconfigured main roadway, a new walking path, lighting and softball fields -- were huge for Deptford Township and surrounding neighborhoods. Despite a few breakdowns over the summer, the splash pad turned out to be a big success in its first year. 

 Rebecca Forand may be reached at rforand@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @RebeccaForand. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

GLASSBORO — On Friday, January 8, 2016 the Gloucester County Chamber of Commerce (GCCC) will host the 12th annual State of the County taking place at the Eynon Ballroom in Rowan University's Chamberlain Student Center, 201 Mullica Hill Road in Glassboro. Republic Bank is the presenting sponsor for this exciting event that has sold out the past three years. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.,...

GLASSBORO -- On Friday, January 8, 2016 the Gloucester County Chamber of Commerce (GCCC) will host the 12th annual State of the County taking place at the Eynon Ballroom in Rowan University's Chamberlain Student Center, 201 Mullica Hill Road in Glassboro. Republic Bank is the presenting sponsor for this exciting event that has sold out the past three years. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., and the main event will commence at 8 a.m.

This year's State of the County will showcase Gloucester County's economic success.

The event's moderator will be the vice president of government and external relations at Kennedy Health, Lisa Morina.  Speakers for the 12 annual State of the County include: 

• Rowan University President - Dr. Ali Houshmand,
• Gloucester County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO - Les Vail,
• Gloucester County Freeholder Director - Robert Damminger
• New Jersey Senate President - Stephen Sweeney.

GCCC is proud to announce this year's keynote speaker will be Rick Forman, the founder, president, and CEO of Forman Mills Inc.

Forman planted the roots of his company in 1977 when he began selling discounted T-shirts, sweatshirts and sportswear to local buyers at Philadelphia flea markets. His talent in retail immediately skyrocketed during his following years spent at Rutgers University. There, Forman made strong business relationships with veteran retail professionals. Forman opened his first Forman Mills factory in 1985. Today Forman Mills represents a chain of 35 store locations across the Northeast. Forman continues to use a low-cost real estate model to guide his retail management strategies. His success earned him a recent appearance on today's popular reality show, "Undercover Boss."

The GCCC credits the success of this year's State of the County to its Gold Sponsors: Kennedy Health, PCH Technologiesc, and Atlantic City Electric;

Silver Sponsors: Parker McCay, Fulton Bank, A.A. Duckett, Big Sky Enterprises, BWM Construction, Cape Bank, Comcast Spotlight, Lisa Carney Retail Agency, Hutchinson Mechanical Services, Laura Bishop Communications, Nexus Properties, Rowan College at Gloucester County, South Jersey Industries, Bellia Print & Design, and SpeedPro Imaging.

Media Sponsors: SJ Biz Magazine, and NJ Advance Media.

Registration is now open. Chamber members pay $45 and non-members pay $60, either online at gc-chamber.com or at the door.

Today GCCC serves over 800 members and facilitates connections between many local organizations. It acts as a crucial networking tool to help members utilize the products and services of the local business community. The mission of the GCCC is to be a leader and unified voice in creating a positive economic and civic climate in Gloucester County, resulting in growth and prosperity for business.  For more information, please contact Melina Zamalloa at 856-881-6560.

 

South Jersey Federal Credit Union (SJFCU) announceS the grand opening of its new Glassboro branch, located at 202 Rowan Boulevard. A ribbon cutting and reception was held on Dec. 4. Several dignitaries were on hand for the ceremony, as well as members of the SJFCU Board of Directors, CEO Rahul Kachru and CFO Ernie Huggard. South Jersey Federal Credit Union...

South Jersey Federal Credit Union (SJFCU) announceS the grand opening of its new Glassboro branch, located at 202 Rowan Boulevard.

A ribbon cutting and reception was held on Dec. 4. Several dignitaries were on hand for the ceremony, as well as members of the SJFCU Board of Directors, CEO Rahul Kachru and CFO Ernie Huggard. South Jersey Federal Credit Union Board Chairman John Bettis had the honor of cutting the ribbon. The opening of Glassboro marks the seventh branch for SJFCU. Other locations include Deptford, Camden, Pleasantville, Voorhees, Moorestown and Vineland.

SJFCU has been serving the residents of South Jersey for 75 years. They are a diverse, full-service financial institution serving more than 45,000 members and over 600 employee groups.

WASHINGTON TWP. – For the fourth year in a row, 13-year-old Sicklerville resident DJ Alexis brought hundreds of toys for young Kennedy University Hospital patients — as well as for Kennedy Health Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health patients — to spread holiday joy. DJ's visit to Kennedy's Washington Township Hospital on Dec. 18, was the culmination of a months' long toy drive...

WASHINGTON TWP. - For the fourth year in a row, 13-year-old Sicklerville resident DJ Alexis brought hundreds of toys for young Kennedy University Hospital patients -- as well as for Kennedy Health Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health patients -- to spread holiday joy.

DJ's visit to Kennedy's Washington Township Hospital on Dec. 18, was the culmination of a months' long toy drive that pooled the efforts of friends, schoolmates, family members, and area businesses from Cherry Hill to Vineland.

The toy drive -- which resulted in more than 400 wrapped gifts -- is held annually in memory of DJ's brother, Emanuel, who died in infancy in 2006.

 

A Camden County woman who had been listed in critical but stable condition after a two-vehicle crash last week has died.

File Photo 

GLASSBORO -- A Camden County woman who had been listed in critical but stable condition after a two-vehicle crash last week has died, according to a statement from the Glassboro Police Department.

Chelsea Sinigaglio, 23, of West Berlin, had been transported to Cooper University Hospital after the Dec. 14 crash on Ellis Street and Higgins Drive involving a 60-year-old Pennsylvania man, James Chambers. 

Following the crash, police charged Chambers, of Malvern, Pennsylvania, with numerous offenses, including assault by auto and drug and prescription drug offenses.

Authorities responded to the crash shortly after 7 p.m. where they found Sinigaglio and Chambers both trapped in their vehicles. After they were removed, they were taken to Cooper University Hospital. Sinigaglio ultimately succumbed to her injuries. 

In a statement, officials said additional or upgraded charges are "pending toxicology results from the New Jersey State Police Laboratory."

Spencer Kent may be reached at skent@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @SpencerMKent. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

 

As I spoke to Trooper Eli McCarson's family, I could feel their sadness. I knew that no words, especially from me, were going to help.

New Jersey State Police Trooper Eli McCarson New Jersey State Police 

By Sgt. Wayne Bonfiglio

I must first say that I write this with so much mixed emotion that I hope my point comes across clearly.

I just left the the company of Jordan McCarson, the wife of State Police Trooper Eli McCarson. The 30-year-old trooper tragically died in the line of duty Dec. 17, after his car struck a utility pole in Quinton Township. He was responding to a domestic dispute call at the time.

Jordan McCarson sat around the dinning room table with her parents and Trooper McCarson's parents. She was surrounded by more of her family as well as her New Jersey State Police family.

RELATED: Funeral for trooper to be held at Rowan

I went to the home as a representative of the Irish Pub Children's Foundation (IPCF), on which I sit as a member of the board of directors. I presented a donation on behalf of the IPCF to Mrs. McCarson and her family.

As I spoke to them, I could feel their sadness. I knew that no words, especially from me, were going to help. After explaining exactly who I represent and why I was presenting this donation to them, I believe that Jordan, her parents and Eli's parents understood that good people feel their loss and support them in their time of grief.

I am blessed that I could represent the members of the foundation. But I truly feel that I represented more than just the IPCF. I stood in front of Trooper Eli McCarson's family and felt that I represented every person who has ever participated in our organization's Tour de Shore bicycle ride or any of our other events.  

So, if you've ever pedaled your bike in the Tour de Shore, or handed out water or food, drove a support vehicle, directed traffic or assisted in any capacity, I want to say from the deepest part of my heart, and on behalf of the trooper's family and all of the New Jersey State Police: Thank you for all you have done. Your involvement may now be just a memory of some hot day in July, but know that you have all touched a family whose lives has been sadly changed forever. 

I cried with Eli's family over his death. I can only pray that I would never have to do that again. Sadly enough, I know a line-of-duty death will happen again, but I am comforted to know that you will all be there with me.  

God bless you all.

Wayne Bonfiglio, in addition to his IPCF board membership, is a sergeant with the Berlin Township Police and the president of South Jersey Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 56. The Tour de Shore is a 65-mile charity bike ride from the Irish Pub in Philadelphia to the Irish Pub in Atlantic City. Proceeds benefit local children's charities and the families of fallen first responders.

Jack Hannold writes that if Hillary Clinton is the party's nominee, it may cost them the White House.

To the Editor:

With control of the U.S. Senate at stake, Republican leaders are understandably worried about having Donald Trump as their 2016 presidential candidate.  

Democrats hold only 10 of the 34 Senate seats at stake in 2016, while Republicans hold 24. The GOP must win at least 20 of those 34 seats to keep control. That's why, as the Washington Post reported recently, Republican Party officials are quietly making plans to force a brokered convention. 

They've seen polls that show Hillary Clinton ahead of Trump and Sen. Ted Cruz nearly everywhere, but also find her to be competitive with the strongest declared GOP candidates in many of the states the Republicans need. These Republican leaders want a different presidential candidate, one who can both win the White House and help the party's Senate candidates.

These Republican bigwigs also assume that their Democratic counterparts will be able to rig the nominating process in favor of Hillary Clinton. And, that's a real possibility.

MORE: Five takeaways from third Democratic debate

The polls that find U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders more popular than Clinton -- with independents as well as both activist and non-activist Democrats -- also find Clinton likely to beat Sanders to win Democratic primaries in most states. The Wall Street Democrats have already secured endorsements for Clinton from many Democratic elected officials. 

Don't forget what happened when party bosses engineered the 1968 nomination of Vice President Hubert Humphrey, who, like Clinton, had been part of an unpopular administration.

If Democratic power brokers can make Clinton their nominee, they may lose the White House as a result.  If they do, it probably won't be their biggest loss since 1972, but it will certainly be their least surprising one since 1968.

Jack Hannold

Clayton 

Add one ballot question for Sweeney

To the Editor:

In Paul Mulshine's Dec. 18 column ("Dems take initiative on referendums") State Senate President Sen. Stephen Sweeney, D-Gloucester,  is cited as saying the Republican administration of Gov. Chris Christie is not in tune with the majority of New Jersey residents. This, according to Sweeney, leaves the Democrat-controlled Legislature no choice but to try to put four referendum questions before voters in 2016. (A governor's signature is not required for the Legislature to place questions on the ballot.) 

I think it's Sweeney who's out of tune. He wants to raise gasoline taxes to replenish New Jersey's Transportation Trust Fund, even though recent polls show that the majority of residents are steadfastly opposed raising gasoline taxes -- even if those funds can't be use for any other purpose.

If Sweeney wants to follow the will of the people who elected him, why stop at four referendum questions? How about a fifth one asking if the people of New Jersey support a gasoline tax increase?  

Personally, I'm tired of Sweeney's same old tune. Raising taxes is the only song he knows. 

Carol Rhodes

Barnsboro

Editor's note: Referendum language approved last week by an Assembly committee asks voters to dedicate all current and future gasoline tax revenue to transportation, but voter approval would not itself increase the tax.

BPU shills for fossil fuel industry

To the Editor:

Regarding the state Board of Public Utilities' unanimous final approval Dec. 16 of a contested South Jersey Gas Co. pipeline through the Pinelands, in order to convert the B.L England electricity plant from coal to natural gas:

BPU Chairman Richard Mroz and the other four commissioners are nothing more than shills for the fossil fuel industry. It is pathetic for Mroz to claim to have analyzed all the public comments on the project, and then make the outrageous claim  that the comments were all opinions, not facts.

Then Mroz had the audacity to state that the only experts who  provided the BPU's little fiefdom with admissible facts were the pro-pipeline ones from South Jersey Gas.

Commissioner Joseph Fiordaliso, who held two public hearings in Upper Township, Cape May County, (where the plant is located) didn't show up for the Dec. 16 vote. Maybe his conscience had trouble doing the dirty deed of voting "yes" before Christmas, and going against the tenets of Pope Francis regarding climate change. 

The BPU resembles a criminal syndicate that is unconcerned about the planet.

Steven Fenichel

Ocean City

Send a letter to the editor of South Jersey Times at sjletters@njadvancemedia.com

By Lorraine Kiefer Christmas trees are probably one of the favorite symbols of the season. They bring back so many different memories to different folks. Evergreens have long been a symbol of eternity. During this dark time of the year an evergreen tree with bright lights is a symbol of hope. Did you ever think that the tree that...

By Lorraine Kiefer

Christmas trees are probably one of the favorite symbols of the season. They bring back so many different memories to different folks. Evergreens have long been a symbol of eternity. During this dark time of the year an evergreen tree with bright lights is a symbol of hope. Did you ever think that the tree that so many young people just take for granted is often not always possible. The older one gets the more difficult it becomes to put up a fresh tree, so often a vase of fresh, fragrant greens becomes a token of the fresh tree. Cut some greens today!

History tells us that even the druids used evergreen trees, arborvitae or tree of life, in their solstice ceremonies. This long lasting and fragrant green is also nice to vase for winter color in your home.This is why it is nice to take someone a bouquet of fresh, Christmas greens with a few bright flowers. 

It is best to bring a live tree inside as close to Christmas as possible so that it is fragrant and fresh for Christmas.Lorraine Kiefer 

Although tradition has it that the tree should not be aglow until Christmas Eve, many start to light it early in the month. In reality, it is best to bring a live tree inside as close to Christmas as possible so that it is fragrant and fresh from Christmas until Epiphany, which is Jan. 6.

I love real trees best and have found that the daily watering that is required to keep one fresh is well worth the effort. Forget the pennies, aspirin or soda and just remember to water! But a few drops of bleach in the container will keep microbial life from fouling the water and blocking the way for the water to reach all the needles. Add some plant food or use the commercial tree tablets if you can. If the tree has been cut for a long time, recut the stem and plunge it in a bucket of water. The packets of floral life used for fresh flowers will feed the tree as well as keep the water clean. but add water as soon as the water level goes down.

Firs are favorites with many because they have short, flat fragrant needles that hold. Douglas firs have medium needles that last very well, but they are a little soft when it comes to hanging very heavy ornaments. Fraser firs have short stiff needles and last well indoors. 

Another fir that smells like a fresh orange is the concolor fir. Long, somewhat soft blue needles make this striking evergreen too beautiful to cut down. Ideally this one would make a great-balled tree to have in a cool room or porch. 

Spruce are also very popular in our area since the bright green Norway spruce grows so well here. My husband Ted and I found a spruce  large enough to cut in one of our fields that is almost ready. I always feel a bit of remorse in cutting a tree, but then think of them as crops. Some of the large old trees around the back of the field are used for greens for wreaths and grave blankets, but the new, smaller ones will be cut over the years. The good thing is that new small trees have already been planted in-between where trees are missing. These  were put in in November. The rains settled them in and hopefully the roots are growing now and getting ready for spring.

Fresh trees are a renewable crop that is good to keep open land for the birds and wildlife. I notice that flocks of birds roost in the trees every day at dusk. The field is always alive with bird calls and birds flying about eating insects and seeds. A Christmas tree field is a healthy spot for all. 

Live growing trees with a root ball should not be in a hot room for more than a few days, as they will come out of the winter dormancy. This is bad, as the new growth will freeze when taken outdoors to be planted. Have hole dug so the tree can be secure in the ground before the worst of the winter is here.

Remember that both live and cut trees can be put out for the birds after Christmas. They provide shelter from wind, snow and rain, as well as protection from predators. Near a bird feeder they will make for a good hiding spot for shy birds. Enjoy your tree and give it the importance that it should have in tradition.

You may want to tie some bird ornaments or slices of fruit and bread to a tree near your bird feeder. Kids and old folks alike love to watch birds outside the window and  trees and food attract them. Save the mesh bags from fruit and get some suet from the butcher to hand out in it. You can also buy suet cakes ready to hang. The woodpeckers that come for that are fascinating. Enjoy nature at its best even on winter days!

Keep watering any Christmas gift plants and they should live on as great houseplants. Remember that once christmas cactus finish blooming they just need a bright window in which to grow for next year's show. Amaryllis  will bloom and then send up foliage which in turn makes next year's bloom, so give each a mild feeding as we go into the new year and the hours of daylight become a bit longer.

Remember some green in the house will brighten it up. Water and wash plants and they will respond well.

Lorraine Kiefer is the owner and operator of Triple Oaks Nursery in Franklinville. She can also be reached by e-mail at Lorraine@tripleoaks.

The Salvation Army's Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Camden will have even more options in the Choice Food Pantry after receiving two grants of $2,500 each from Investors Bank in partnership with the Roma Bank Community Foundation. The Choice Food Pantry is open to Kroc Center members and area residents every day from 9 a.m. to 2...

The Salvation Army's Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Camden will have even more options in the Choice Food Pantry after receiving two grants of $2,500 each from Investors Bank in partnership with the Roma Bank Community Foundation.

The Choice Food Pantry is open to Kroc Center members and area residents every day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and offers shelf-stable and fresh food options such as fruits, vegetables, grains, beans and some limited meat and dairy products. According to Coordinator Jacob Julian, the Choice Food Pantry serves about 180 families each month.

"The grants from the Investors Bank Foundation and Roma Bank Community Foundation enable the Kroc Center to make a bigger difference in our members' lives," said Major Terry L. Wood, the center's administrator. "Some of our members need assistance in the wake of an illness or a temporary job loss, or at certain times of the year. The ability to shop at the Choice Food Pantry -- which looks like any other grocery store -- provides them with the opportunity to supplement their groceries and maintain their dignity."

The Kroc Center applied for the grant from Investors Foundation and Roma Bank Community Foundation; Roma Bank became part of Investors Bank in early 2014. The foundations support non-profit organizations that enrich diverse communities served by Investors Bank. 

Because the Choice Food Pantry is configured similarly to other grocery stores, families can select their own foods -- items their individual family members would enjoy -- rather than receiving a box of pre-selected food stuffs. In addition to the food items available, the Choice Food Pantry also provides education and information to assist those members who may have special nutritional requirements.

 Julian said the Choice Food Pantry grew some of its own vegetable options for the first time this past summer in raised beds behind the Kroc Center. He said the Kroc Center is planning on expanding its plantings in the spring and summer of 2016, in an effort to offer more fresh fruit and vegetable choices.

The Greater Woodbury Garden Club made a $500 donation to the horticulture program at the St. John of God School in Westville. The check was presented by President Barbara Haase and Vice President Shirley Robinson in a brief ceremony at the school on Dec. 8. The ceremony was followed by a tour of the greenhouse and gardens. This donation...

The Greater Woodbury Garden Club made a $500 donation to the horticulture program at the St. John of God School in Westville.

The check was presented by President Barbara Haase and Vice President Shirley Robinson in a brief ceremony at the school on Dec. 8. The ceremony was followed by a tour of the greenhouse and gardens.

This donation supports this local school's horticulture program and is a fine example of the GWGC's efforts to promote education in this field.

The GWGC also annually offers scholarships to high school seniors pursuing a degree in a horticultural related field. Funds are raised primarily through the club's annual Garden Tour and Tea, offered the first Saturday in June each year.

Delsea Regional Middle School announces the names of students on the Superintendent's List and Principal's List for the first marking period. SUPERINTENDENT'S LIST:   Grade 7: Haley Burkert, Julia Cipollone, Leah Fulton and Candice Rauchfuss. Grade 8: Tressa Biener, Tyler Burger, Gaven Cannon, Aleena Clark, Thomas Dalfonso, Seth Foresman, Rebecca Kobik, Michael Markert, Elizabeth Nicell, Sarah Nicell and Justin Reber. Principal's List:   Grade 7: Madison Armstrong,...

 

Delsea Regional Middle School announces the names of students on the Superintendent's List and Principal's List for the first marking period.

SUPERINTENDENT'S LIST:  

Grade 7: Haley Burkert, Julia Cipollone, Leah Fulton and Candice Rauchfuss.

Grade 8: Tressa Biener, Tyler Burger, Gaven Cannon, Aleena Clark, Thomas Dalfonso, Seth Foresman, Rebecca Kobik, Michael Markert, Elizabeth Nicell, Sarah Nicell and Justin Reber.

Principal's List:  

Grade 7:

Madison Armstrong, Madison Ayers, Olivia Barr, Christopher Benz, Emilia Bianco, Levi Brown, Michael Carr, Amanda Castillo, Kaitlyn Cavanaugh, Jonathan Cerino, Dylan Cervini, Paige Cervini, Avery Clark, Dominic Colantuono, Janina Costello, Noah Croce, Michael Deveney, Rena Donnelly, Ashley Ensman, Lucas Franco, Anna Gaglianone, Ricky Garron, Sebastian Georgescu, Salvatore Giuliano, Jillian Gonnelli, Alley Harris, Ciara Hayden, Madison Heipp, Dylan Helmer, Jacob Hoffman, Carlee Isner, Christopher Iuliucci and Jordan Jones.

Also,Nicholas King, Kayla Lawson, Isabella Lynch, Nina Marchese, Maxwell Marsh, Alyssa Masciocchi, Matthew McCaffrey, Tristan McCleery, Maya McIntire, Emma McKeever, Jaden McSeed, Riley Miller, Karlee Morschauser, Megan Mullin, Gabrielle Nappa, Carly Nicholson, Sean Phillips, Jonathan Price, Morgan Rossi, Emily Scavelli, Juliana Sharrow, John Shirley, Katelyn Smith, Jackson Spickenreuther, Emma Sweiderk, Mia Szostek, Austin Trovillo, Leah Wagner, Arielle Weeast, Chloe Widmer, Celina Williams, Jack Wolf and Zachary Woshnak.

Grade 8: Coulter Afflerbach, Nicolette Biscardi, Paige Bleda, Jack Boeckle, Teagan Borguet, Danielle Brown, Taylor Carino, Joanna Caruso, Antonio Catania, Gianna Cava, Albert Chickelero, Erin Collins, Elle Crawford, Charles  Dalisay, Shane Delowery, Keith Doran, Vincent D'Ottavio, Justin Dougherty, Stephanie Eastlack, Tara Exley, Jacy Gilliano, Travis Griffith, Amaris Hernandez, Kevin Hickman, Ryleigh Huntsinger, Julia Iaccarino, Robert Kahana, Eleanor Keenan, Janelle Koepfer, Richard Kurczeski, Jaliyah Kutu-Akoi and Dane Lacerte.

Also, Cole Lachowicz, Aaron Latimer, Joshua Lewbart, Dasia Liberati, Grayson Link, Hailey Little, Danielle Lodge, Shauna Marsh, Joshua Marshall, Ashlyn Mason, Madisen Mattle, Madison Maxwell, Julian Mazzarelli, Colin McCoy, Michael Mellor, Savanah Miller, Tteeffe Mukwata, Alexander Murcavage, Amber Murphy, Morgan Murray, Christina Myers, Alayna Norville, Jake Nwosu, Matthew Owens, Ava Pastore, Rishi Patel, Skyler Patterson, Amanda Pescatore, Kelsey Pio, Dominick Pruna, Adrianna Rappleye, Brianna Russo, Kimberlee Stockdill, Kati Tanguay, Vincenzo Taormina, Allie Tenenberg, Karly Torres, Argia Unfreed, Skyla Vitullo, Jobe Weaver, Seth Williams, Zachary Worley, John Yonkauske and Dorothy Zelenka, Jillian Zimmer.

 

Rescuers were still setting traps in the Pitman house when NJ Advance Media visited the shelter on Monday afternoon, and it was possible more animals would be caught by the end of the day. Watch video

CLAYTON -- Gloucester County officials say a hoarder house in Pitman contained 131 cats when police, animal control and SPCA officers descended on the property last week. Now, those cats need your help.

"I've been here 25 years, and it's the highest volume I've ever seen," said Owen Sturm, assistant manager of the Gloucester County Animal Shelter. The only incident that even comes close was the 2006 seizure of 100 cats and eight dogs from a West Deptford home.

Rescuers were still setting traps in the Pitman house when NJ Advance Media visited the shelter on Monday afternoon, and it was possible more animals would be caught by the end of the day.

More than 50 of the cats have been taken in by rescue groups such as South Jersey Rescue, Pennsylvania's Delaware County SPCA and St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center, but Gloucester County already had nearly 170 cats and 38 dogs in its care at the time of the Pitman rescue. That leaves about 250 cats in need of a place to live.

"Even with those 56 going out, we're at capacity," said County Administrator Chad Bruner.

Matt Stanton, a spokesman with the NJSPCA, did not immediately return phone calls on Monday for an update on whether charges had been filed against the owner. He said last week, however, that in hoarding cases, the agency often does not pursue charges as long as the animals are surrendered in good condition.

If there's an upside, it's that the cats are healthy and socialized. Each one was looked over at the Pitman Animal Hospital before being put up for adoption, and all have been altered and vaccinated. Although some neighbors in the Pitman Grove who had lost cats initially worried that their pets might be among the rescues, none have been a match so far, and none of the hoarded animals had been previously microchipped.

"Our veterinarian, Dr. Harris, hasn't reported any issues," said Bruner. "They're just scared."

http://www.nj.com/gloucester-county/index.ssf/2015/12/cats_rescued_from_pitman_home_available_for_adopti.html

Sturm said that although the high levels of ammonia in the house had the potential to cause respiratory problems for the cats, the biggest health issue was that one kitten had a hernia -- an easily-treated ailment that had nothing to do with the kitten's living conditions.

"Every day, their behavior improves," said Sturm, standing before a communal pen of four cats. "They're coming out of their shells."

What Gloucester County needs -- more than food or pet supply donations -- is to relieve the crowding in the shelter. That means more adoptions. None of the Pitman cats have yet found a permanent home.

The two-for-one deal that Gloucester County announced last week has been extended indefinitely, and thanks a partnership with People For Animals, which runs the county's spay and neuter clinic, all of the Pitman cats are available for just $25.

For more information, check out the Gloucester County Animal Shelter on Facebook or call 856-881-2828 and press 1 for adoptions.

Andy Polhamus may be reached at apolhamus@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @ajpolhamus. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP – Washington Township High School students in Abby Molotsky's Exploring the Theater class welcomed Carnegie Mellon University playwright Jessica Honovich to the classroom on Dec. 17. At present, Honovich has two plays being produced, one in California and one in New York. She spoke to the students about working as a playwright, honing her craft, and having...

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP - Washington Township High School students in Abby Molotsky's Exploring the Theater class welcomed Carnegie Mellon University playwright Jessica Honovich to the classroom on Dec. 17.

At present, Honovich has two plays being produced, one in California and one in New York. She spoke to the students about working as a playwright, honing her craft, and having her plays produced in the theater. She also discussed TV and film writing.

Honovich ended the class with a three-minute playwriting exercise where each student wrote his/her own play, telling them they now all can say they are playwrights!

 

MULLICA HILL – Volunteers are a significant part of any health care organization. They provide care and support services to patients, their caregivers and to office staff. Inspira Health Network is seeking volunteers who are interested in making a positive difference in the lives of patients and their families and caregivers. Men and women of all ages and from every...

MULLICA HILL - Volunteers are a significant part of any health care organization. They provide care and support services to patients, their caregivers and to office staff. Inspira Health Network is seeking volunteers who are interested in making a positive difference in the lives of patients and their families and caregivers. Men and women of all ages and from every walk of life who are interested in volunteering their time are encouraged to apply.  

Inspira is seeking daytime volunteers to assist with a range of tasks, including: office and clerical support, meeting and greeting visitors, cashier and other retail tasks, supporting nursing staff with patient-related services, visiting patients for spiritual and emotional support, and more. Some weekend hours are available.

Volunteer opportunities are available at: Inspira Health Center Bridgeton, Inspira Medical Centers Elmer, Vineland, and Woodbury as well as at the network's Home Care and Hospice programs, LIFE Center and Twice Loved Treasures Thrift Shop.

To contact the volunteer programs at Inspira's medical centers, call Elmer 856-363-1738; Vineland 856-641-7737; or Woodbury 856-853-2034. For more information or other volunteer opportunities, please visit InspiraHealthNetwork.org or call 1-800-INSPIRA.

DEPTFORD TWP. – An admired man of many talents, Dr. Paul C. Davidson was a successful chiropractor deeply involved within the community, including Rowan College at Gloucester County (RCGC) where he taught anatomy and physiology as an adjunct instructor. On Dec. 20, members of the Davidson family ensured that the impact their loved one had on students would continue at...

DEPTFORD TWP. - An admired man of many talents, Dr. Paul C. Davidson was a successful chiropractor deeply involved within the community, including Rowan College at Gloucester County (RCGC) where he taught anatomy and physiology as an adjunct instructor. On Dec. 20, members of the Davidson family ensured that the impact their loved one had on students would continue at the college, creating an endowment scholarship in his honor.

"Paul loved this place," said his wife, Christina Davidson-Tucci. "He had a passion for teaching and thought it was a privilege to encourage, inspire and nurture students," she told the group of RCGC employees and family members gathered at the signing ceremony. Also attending the ceremony were Christina and Paul's two young sons, Stephen and Paul, his father Dr. Jay Davidson and mother Randee Davidson, an employee at the college.

Davidson, who tragically passed away from a boating accident at the age of 32, was committed to making students' educational experience at the college a positive one. He liked to bring his professional experience as a chiropractor into the classroom, sharing case studies and providing students with a connection between theory and practice, making contagious the excitement to learn.

The Dr. Paul C. Davidson Memorial Endowment will provide a perpetual $500 scholarship annually to a qualified full-time, first- or second-year student. Applicants must be a current Gloucester County resident majoring in an allied health related field or the biological sciences with a minimum 3.25 GPA. High school applicants planning to attend must maintain a B+ or higher overall GPA. All applicants must submit a 250-word essay on career objectives.  

Davidson received his Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from The College of New Jersey and his Chiropractic Doctoral Degree from Sherman College of Chiropractic in South Carolina. During his time at Sherman College, he was a graduate instructor for Chiropractic Biophysics Technique and also vice president of the Biophysics Club. After earning his degree, Davidson joined his father's chiropractic practice in Washington Township and also served as vice president of the Washington Township Rotary Club.

"This endowment is a precious gift in keeping Paul's memory alive," stated Dr. Susan Hall, dean of Nursing and Allied Health. Hall worked with Davidson when he taught as an adjunct instructor at Gloucester County College (now RCGC).

For more information on student scholarships, visit rcgc.edu/scholarships.

Rowan College at Gloucester County is located on a 250-acre campus on Tanyard Road, Deptford.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP –Washington Township Board of Education President Ginny Murphy and fellow members of the board honored outgoing member Tiffany Orihel at the December meeting. Murphy presented Orihel with a plaque and voiced praise for Orihel's contributions during her 10 months on the board. During that time, she served on two key board committees that were responsible for selecting...

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP -Washington Township Board of Education President Ginny Murphy and fellow members of the board honored outgoing member Tiffany Orihel at the December meeting.

Murphy presented Orihel with a plaque and voiced praise for Orihel's contributions during her 10 months on the board.

During that time, she served on two key board committees that were responsible for selecting new Superintendent Joe Bollendorf and planning for the implementation of redistricting and full-day kindergarten.

 

Barbara Essington writes that for the religious, inward peace is a reality in spite of world unrest.

To the Editor:

When the angel announced to the shepherds the birth of Jesus Christ on that first Christmas night more than 2,000 years ago, the message was, "Fear not...I bring you good news of great joy which shall be to all people..." (Luke 2: 10-11)

As we observe current events, it would appear that there is much to fear and not enough good news. Paris, San Bernadino and other events have all contributed to many feeling less safe. Many Americans believe another Sept.-11-like attack is imminent.

Our leaders seem to elevate tolerance and political correctness to way above protecting our country. According to U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse, R-Neb., as quoted on newsmax.com, " 'America is at war with a specific ideology that wants to kill in the name of religion', yet our leaders won't acknowledge 'the nature of the enemy we face.' "  

Sasse adds that we are seeing a lack of leadership and urgency in Washington by those who "deal with the world they wish existed instead of the world we actually have."

The angel's message to the shepherds was one of hope and joy for all people, no matter their religion or lack of one. The angelic host proclaimed "...Peace on earth, good will toward men."

For those of us who trust and believe in a living God, inward peace is a reality in spite of world unrest and life's difficulties.

Phillip Brooks, author of the lyrics to "O Little Town of Bethlehem," wrote in the popular Christmas carol, "The hopes and fears of all the years are met in Thee tonight."

Barbara Essington

Carneys Point Township

Social Security stinginess 'a crime'

To the Editor:

I would like to comment about no Social Security cost-of-living benefit increase for senior citizens in 2016, because of low inflation. I believe this is a crime against those of us on very limited budgets.

Why are we able to send billions of our dollars overseas to countries that could not care less about America, except for what we can give in money or supplies? Why can't we keep a few billion dollars at home?

Right here in Cumberland County, we have a large homeless population, and more families looking for their next meal and clothes to keep their children warm.

The federal government denied a Social Security increase largely because gasoline and heating oil prices went down.  Thank God for that, but the rent didn't go down. Food prices and taxes didn't go down, either. We can't eat fuel.

RELATED: Updated Social Security benefit formula needed: Opinion

Our national and local leaders need to be sent a message on the next election day. They should live on what we have to live on, and see if they can survive. Everyone in government should take a hard look at their paychecks and be ashamed of themselves.

Go look at the "Code Blue" shelters set up for cold weather, or all the people lined up for a meal at our local churches There are seniors who have to choose between their medicine or their meals.Is that fair for all their years of hard work? Some of us served our country when asked, and now we get nothing. 

What harm could a 2 or 3 percent benefit increase do? This country is already billions of dollars in debt, and we just keep printing more money and sending it to other countries.

God bless America, because we really need it.

Tom Laquitara

Bridgeton

Send a letter to the editor of South Jersey Times at sjletters@njadvancemedia.com

The bizarre, offbeat New Jersey stories that left you scratching you head during the year gone by.

WOODBURY HEIGHTS Listed are the Woodbury Heights Elementary School students in Grades 1-6 who have earned "Reading is Pleasing" honors for November/December 2015: Elexa Chajkowski (1-Ch), Kailyn Belsky (1-Co), Benjamin Nguyen (2-T), Eily McFarland (2-W), Sophia Martin (3-G), Skyla Elenbark (3-L), Tabitha Bay (4-D), Erin Jones (4-G), Ella Packer (5-H), Carolyn Yerka (5-S), Marjorie Childs (6-D), and Nicholas Smith...

WOODBURY HEIGHTS

Listed are the Woodbury Heights Elementary School students in Grades 1-6 who have earned "Reading is Pleasing" honors for November/December 2015:

Elexa Chajkowski (1-Ch), Kailyn Belsky (1-Co), Benjamin Nguyen (2-T), Eily McFarland (2-W), Sophia Martin (3-G), Skyla Elenbark (3-L), Tabitha Bay (4-D), Erin Jones (4-G), Ella Packer (5-H), Carolyn Yerka (5-S), Marjorie Childs (6-D), and Nicholas Smith (6-G).

The "Reading is Pleasing" award recognizes those students who display positive reading habits and a sincere love for reading. Congratulations to all of the "Reading is Pleasing" winners for this fine achievement.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

Bells Elementary School Principal Ginny Grier recently announced the school's Paw Pride winners for the month of December. The Bells School Paw Pride program is a Character Education Program that rewards students in grades 1-5 for demonstrating excellent character traits. These students were selected for exhibiting one of the four pillars of character education: Be Responsible, Be Respectful, Be a Friend, Be Safe. Students earn a paw, and place their paw in a class drawing box. Winners received a pizza lunch with Principal Grier, a certificate and scented pencils, thanks to the Bells Home and School Council. 

Congratulations to the Paw Pride Winners for December:

Grade 1 - Grace Passante, Maksim Koslosky, Orlon Rose, Korie Gould and Michael Riddles.

Grade 2 - Anthony DiFranceisco, Travis Vanleer, Trevor Vanleer, Haley Vitale and  Andrew Gadzinski.

Grade 3 - Faaz Syed, Sydney Borkowski, Lilly Garbowski, Brooke Kozeniewski and Catherine Cook.

Grade 4 - Grace Vigilante, Brayden Chew, Julian Dicicco, Matt Kratchwell and Riley Borkowski.

Grade 5 - Amelia Rodriguez, Evan LeComte, Michael Lotsey, Michael Bruno and  Lorenzo Campo.

MULLICA HILL

Pleasant Valley School announces the names of its Students of the Month for December 2015. 

4th grade -- Lucia Visalli, Jaden New, Tyler Puckett, Evan Marino, Sarah Kaestner, Evelyn Buonamici, Madison Thomas, Kathryn Wagner, Seamus Watson and Brendan McGroarty.

5th grade -- Ryan Glavin, Brian Coyle, Samantha Lee, Derek Falcone, Kyra McFadden, Connor Fredericksdorf, Quintin Briggs, Cameron Fuller, Gabrielle Trovato and Lia Waton.

6th grade -- Sebastain Lamb, Doriana Castelforte, Cole Powell, Stephen Weber, Sophia DiFabio, Tiana Camacho, Felipe Fernandez, Quinn O'Mara, Julianna Guzzardo and Ethan Popejoy.

 

Santa? Not everyone's a fan Watch video

With T-minus two days until Christmas Eve, Santa's back at the North Pole putting the final touches on his annual naughty/nice list. The man in red has been busy this month, meeting kids and getting their wish lists. For most children, meeting Santa was a joyous time full of wonderment. For a few, those who are scared of Santa, not so much.

We asked New Jerseyans for their scared of Santa photos, and we were inundated with all sorts of pictures both from the current Santa season and Christmases past. The gallery above has our favorites. There's crying and wriggling and even some kids who won't go near Santa's lap. If you've got scared of Santa photos, post them in comments.

John Shabe can be reached via jshabe@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter and find NJ.com on Facebook.